David Allen Cramer, Jr. passed away on November 13, 2024, age 44, at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. He was born on May 26, 1980, in Lancaster, PA.
David grew up in a close-knit family and is survived by his father, David A. Cramer, Sr., his mother, Melanie A. (Groff) Cramer, and his brother, Jeremy M. Cramer, along with his sister-in-law, Abigail L. Cramer, and his adored nephew, Kyle M. Cramer. His loving relationship with his girlfriend, Courtney Lindsley, and her daughter, Mia Lindsley, brought him tremendous joy. He is also remembered by his ex-wife, Paula Cramer. David was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Ralph N. Cramer and Jean (MacIntyre) Cramer, as well as his maternal grandparents, William M. Groff and Patricia I. (Ferry) Groff.
David graduated from State College High School in 1998, where he was recognized with the Faculty Scholar Award during his senior year. He attended Pennsylvania State University, earning a B.S. degree in Business Logistics with a minor in Economics in 2002. He was employed by Penn State University, Capitol Campus in Harrisburg, PA, for 12 years as a Food Service Receiver and former cook in Housing and Food Services. David also had previous employment at Toftrees, in State College, PA (his first place of employment where he gained an interest in cooking) and at Hoss’s Steak House and Applebee’s Grill in the Harrisburg area.
Music played an integral role in David’s life. His musical talents shone through as he played the clarinet, bass clarinet, and contra bass clarinet in the 9th-10th grade band at Kittanning High School, and later in the 11th-12th grade band at State College High School. His love for music extended to playing the saxophone in the marching bands during the same periods.
David enjoyed history, art, music, and literature with family and friends. His hobbies included bowling, disc golf, building Lego sets and playing video games. He appreciated craft beer and “brewpubbing” with his Dad, Jeremy, Mom, family and friends. David’s passion for Gettysburg National Military Park was shared with his father, as they fondly referred to themselves as “Getty Nerds.” Together, they would often participate in events, hikes, lectures, and engage with literature provided by the Friends of Gettysburg, American Battlefield Trust, Adams County Historical Society, and Seminary Ridge Museum.
Those who knew David would describe him as loving, friendly, and thoughtful.
David Cramer, Jr. will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His legacy will continue in the memories he has left behind and the positive impact he had on the lives of his family, friends, and community.
Visitation will be from 1 until 2 pm on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at State College Presbyterian Church, 132 W Beaver Ave, State College. A memorial service will follow at 2 pm at the church with the Reverend Scott Hoffman officiating.
Inurnment will be in Spring Creek Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of Gettysburg, Gettysburg Foundation, P.O. Box 4629, Gettysburg, PA 17325.